Is an Emergency Response Match.com on the Way?

In an emergency, connecting resources with needs is key to weathering the storm and coming out on the other side. And one group is developing a Match.com-style way of making those connections when they’re needed most.

Russian researchers are working on a “Help Atlas” designed to coordinate people willing to help with areas in need of particular resources. To accelerate and scale the matching of needs and resources, the team created a matchmaking algorithm (hence the Match.com comparisons), including personal profiles of volunteers and their history of assistance.

The process is ongoing as the algorithm becomes more complex – though the researchers note that having digital volunteers to serve as moderators has remained pivotal to improving the system.

Part of the struggle is the scope of the project: while Match.com is focused on online dating, and Uber works only to match those in need of a ride with a local car service, a matching platform for mutual aid may need to narrow its focus.

Still, it’s a great goal – and only a matter of time before it could become a reality. To read more on the project, click here.